Mr Wilson's departure is a blow for M&S
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Charles Wilson, a senior director at Marks & Spencer, is leaving the retailer to become chief executive of cash-and-carry business Booker.
Mr Wilson has played a key role in trying to revive M&S's fortunes since joining the firm last year at the same time as chief executive Stuart Rose.
The duo previously worked together at Booker, Argos and Arcadia.
M&S is struggling to turn around falling sales, particularly in its core clothing business.
M&S shares closed almost 1%, or 3.5 pence, lower at 362.25p.
Right-hand man
M&S said Mr Wilson would not be directly replaced in his role as executive director for IT, logistics and property when he leaves at the end of October.
"Charles joined M&S to do a specific job, namely to help focus the business and to deliver cash and cost improvements," Mr Rose said in a statement.
"He has delivered these and helped build a solid foundation for the company to go forward.
"Our priority now is to drive the business forward in the key areas of product, service and environment."
Mr Wilson has acted as Mr Rose's right-hand man since they joined the company in May 2004, at a time when the retailer was facing a potential takeover bid from retail tycoon Philip Green.
Cost-cutting
Since then, M&S has sought to restructure its operations with Mr Wilson playing a vital role in reducing its costs.
M&S has spent £1.3bn on clearing out excess stock and streamlining its buying operations and has also sold its head office property in London.
However, its sales have continued to slide, with total sales falling 5.4% in the 14 weeks to 9 July.
Mr Wilson worked for Booker between 1998 and 2000 alongside Mr Rose, who was then its chief executive.
Booker is owned by the Icelandic retailer Baugur.
M&S shares were down 1.9% at 358.75 pence in early trading.
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Our priority now is to drive the business forward in they key areas of product, service and environment
